Coherent has released two new optically pumped semiconductor lasers (OPSL) for laser photocoagulation treatment of wet-form macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy
Coherent's new optically pumped semiconductor lasers are the OPSL 532-5, a 5Watt green laser with output at 532nm, and the unique OPSL-577-3, which delivers 3Watts of yellow output at 577nm.
This new yellow wavelength is exactly matched to the main absorption peak of oxygenated hemoglobin and thus provides a higher degree of tissue selectivity than any previous laser wavelength.
This should deliver superior results with reduced patient discomfort.
Coherent's patented OPSL technology utilises a compact, monolithic architecture to deliver several key benefits.
It is the only commercially available laser technology that can be designed to operate at any arbitrary visible or near infrared wavelength and output power.
In contrast, traditional solid state lasers are only available at a few fixed wavelengths, such as 532nm.
OPSL technology is already well-proven over several years in both laboratory and rugged field applications, with over 10,000 lasers in use for bio instrumentation and crime-scene forensics.
In addition, the OPSL technology offers an easy way to modulate the light intensity - with pulses as short as 10microseconds - enabling new treatment options.
Photocoagulation is the prescribed first-choice intervention method for wet-form macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, conditions which are estimated to affect up to 250,000 people annually in the USA alone.
Moreover, this age correlated condition will become even more prevalent with the aging of the baby boom generation.
In addition to photocoagulation, the OPSL 577-3 will also support emerging applications in dermatology.
